For decades, conservatories have been one of the UK’s favourite home improvements. They promise light-filled spaces and a closer connection to the garden. But for many homeowners, the reality doesn’t live up to the dream.
Today, an estimated 1 in 5 UK households, that’s around 3 million homes have a conservatory. Yet complaints are widespread, and in some cases, outdated designs are even dragging down property values.
So why are so many conservatories underused, and what can be done to fix them?
The Biggest Complaints About Conservatories
1. Uncomfortable Temperatures
The number one frustration: conservatories are too hot in summer and too cold in winter. Poor insulation and outdated roofing designs mean they’re unusable for much of the year. In fact, traditional roofs can lose over 50% of heat through the roof alone, driving up bills and leaving the space abandoned.
2. High Energy Bills
According to government data, homes with conservatories consume up to 36% more gas for heating than those without one. With energy costs at record highs, the impact of a poorly insulated room is significant.
3. Leaks, Damp and Condensation
From slipped roof panels to failed seals, many conservatories suffer from leaks, mould, or condensation that damages interiors and makes the space feel neglected.
4. Noise and Glare
Thin polycarbonate roofs magnify the sound of rain and amplify sunlight. Homeowners complain about blinding glare and faded furniture, making the space impractical for everyday living.
5. Outdated Design and Reduced Property Value
Once seen as a must-have, conservatories are now in decline. Property listings mentioning conservatories have fallen by over 50% since 2004, with many buyers viewing them as liabilities rather than assets. A poorly maintained or outdated conservatory can even reduce a home’s value by up to £15,000.
The Good News: You Don’t Need to Rebuild
The decline of the traditional conservatory doesn’t mean homeowners should give up on the idea of extra living space. In fact, demand for modern, year-round usable extensions is growing.
By upgrading rather than rebuilding, homeowners can:
- Regain comfort: Proper insulation keeps the space warm in winter and cool in summer.
- Reduce bills: A system like CI Group’s CHRIS® insulation can cut roof heat loss by up to 82% and reduce heating costs by 32%.
- Add value: Well-insulated, modernised conservatories can increase property value by 5–10%.
- Transform the design: Options like the ThermaTile® solid roof or SkyTherm® orangery-style roof system bring contemporary style and integration with the rest of the home.
Climate Change Makes the Problem Worse
With hotter summers and more extreme weather, the traditional conservatory is only becoming more uncomfortable. Two million UK homes already report overheating in summer. Without upgrading, conservatories will become less usable and less desirable in the years ahead.
That’s why investing in a proper solution now isn’t just about comfort today, it’s about future-proofing your home.
Reclaim Your Conservatory with CI Group
At CI Group, we’ve helped over 30,000 homeowners turn their conservatories back into the light, comfortable rooms they always imagined. With over 4,300 5-star reviews, and the only insulation system independently tested at Salford University, we deliver proven solutions that work.
Whether you want to insulate internally with the CHRIS® system, create a modern look with ThermaTile®, or flood your room with light using SkyTherm®, we can help you transform your conservatory into a space you’ll love, all year-round.
Ready to transform your space?
Book your free, no-obligation quote today and discover how easy it is to reimagine your conservatory.
